Bagan climb to second spot in I-League

Kolkata, Nov 24 (IANS) Mohun Bagan continued to be on song as they registered their fifth consecutive victory, prevailing 1-0 over Mahindra United Mumbai in the I-League here Monday.

Baichung Bhutia struck the all-important goal in the 46th minute to guide his team to the second position in the glamorous league with 18 points, four behind leaders Sporting Clube de Goa.

The goal came soon after the start of the second half as Lal Kamal Bhowmick's shot rebounded off a defender and Bhaichung stabbed home with an excellent left footer after foxing Mahindra goalkeeper Subhasish Roychowdhury with a sharp turn.

The first half of the 10th round contest saw a lacklustre brand of soccer at the moderately attended Salt Lake stadium.

Mahindra's attacks lacked steam as their forays seem to peter out near the Bagan goalmouth. Sushil Singh failed to deliver in the penetrative zone as the Bagan defenders looked solid.

Bagan were late starters too.

After looking incohesive in the initial minutes, Bagan came close to scoring in the 32nd and 39th minute, but Jose Barreto's efforts were foiled by Roychowdhury on both occasions.

The three time champions, however, seemed a much better side after the breather as Marcos Pereira and Bhutia took a leading role in keeping the attacks going.

After Monday's defeat, Mahindra are now in the ninth position with 9 points.